Fauna
Plant

Douglas-fir

Pseudotsuga menziesii

Also known as Oregon Pine, Douglas Spruce, Columbian Pine, Red Fir

Douglas-firs dominate the coniferous forests of western North America, growing into monumental evergreens capable of living for over a millennium. Their deeply furrowed, corky bark helps mature trees survive low-intensity wildfires, while their distinct seed cones feature three-pointed bracts that resemble the tail and hind feet of a mouse hiding beneath each scale. As canopy giants, they support complex ecosystems, providing vital nesting structure for northern spotted owls and seeds for forest rodents.

ConiferEvergreenOld-Growth
Douglas-fir reference1 / 7
(c) Danny Steaven, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyAutotrophic (Photosynthesis)
Predators
  • Douglas-fir Beetle
  • Spruce Budworm
  • Porcupines
ThreatsWildfires, timber harvesting, severe drought, Douglas-fir beetle
HabitatsTemperate rainforests, montane coniferous forests, mixed woodlands
Life span500–1,000+ years
Classification
  1. OrderPinales
  2. FamilyPinaceae
  3. GenusPseudotsuga
  4. SpeciesPseudotsuga menziesii
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
  • Cone Identification: Look for distinctive three-pronged bracts sticking out from under the cone scales.
  • Bark Texture: Look for deep vertical furrows on mature trunks, which insulate the inner tree from fire.
  • Scent Recognition: Gently crush fresh needles to detect a pleasant, sweet citrus and pine aroma.
Related species
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